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Matthew 28:19-20: "Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age."
What did Jesus mean when he said to 'Go and make disciples...'? Jesus intended for his faithful followers to leave their current locations, seek out others, and invite them to become his disciples as well. Throughout the various Great Commission passages in the New Testament, Jesus instructed his followers to bear witness to his life, preach repentance and the forgiveness of sins, provide guidance and sustenance to his followers ('sheep'), and baptize in his name.
Discipleship doesn't end with conversion. Followers of Jesus are also tasked with teaching new believers to obey everything that Jesus has commanded. This involves ongoing spiritual growth and education.
Jesus assures his followers that he will be with them always, providing comfort and guidance. This promise of his presence underscores the divine support they have in fulfilling this mission.
Mark 16:15: "And then he told them, 'Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.'"
Telling people about the Good News of Jesus and encouraging them to follow him is precisely what Jesus instructed his disciples to do.
Our mission as Christ followers is to spread the good news of God. We need to be willing and able to do this no matter what.
2 Timothy 4:2 "Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching."
In this passage Timothy is being told by Paul to, focus his ministry on communicating God's revealed truth to others.
These verses emphasize the importance of spreading the message of Jesus and being a positive influence on those around you. They encourage believers to be active witnesses, sharing the gospel, and making disciples in various ways, whether through teaching, good deeds, or defending their faith with gentleness and respect.